Didier Deschamps Provides Update on Kylian Mbappé's Injury Scare

France's head coach eased concerns after Kylian Mbappé was substituted against Morocco, revealing that the forward is dealing with only a minor ankle issue ahead of the World Cup semifinals.

Deschamps eases concerns after France's victory

France booked its place in the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but much of the post-match attention centered on Kylian Mbappé after the captain was forced off before the final whistle.

Following the victory over Morocco, head coach Didier Deschamps reassured supporters by explaining that the striker's substitution was linked to a minor ankle issue rather than a serious injury.

According to Deschamps, Mbappé experienced some discomfort during the match, but there is no major concern within the French camp.

"It's a small ankle problem"

Speaking after the match, the France manager confirmed that taking Mbappé off was largely a precautionary decision.

"Kylian has a small ankle problem. He was feeling some pain," Deschamps said while discussing the condition of his star forward.

Although he stopped short of giving a timeline for Mbappé's recovery, the coach's comments suggested France remains optimistic about having its leading scorer available for the semifinals.

The Real Madrid forward once again made the difference against Morocco, finding the back of the net after missing a couple of earlier chances.

Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Quarter Final - France v Morocco - Boston Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, U.S. - July 9, 2026 France's Kylian Mbappe reacts after sustaining an injury as referee Facundo Tello looks on REUTERS/Dylan Martinez

Manu Koné also picked up a knock

Deschamps also addressed the condition of Manu Koné, who finished the match with a knee knock and cramps after another physically demanding performance.

The France coach described those issues as a normal consequence of the tournament schedule, with teams playing multiple high-intensity matches in a short period of time.

He also praised Warren Zaïre-Emery, who made his first appearance of the tournament and impressed after coming off the bench.

France reaches another World Cup semifinal

By defeating Morocco, France advanced to the World Cup semifinals for the third consecutive edition, extending one of the most remarkable runs in international football.

Deschamps acknowledged that reaching this stage should never be taken for granted and credited the achievement to the depth and unity of his squad, stressing that every player has remained committed regardless of playing time.

France will now turn its attention to the semifinals, where all eyes will be on Mbappé's recovery as Les Bleus continue their pursuit of another World Cup title.